Leo Varadkar (Dublin West, Fine Gael)
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On 31 August 2021, the Government published Reframing the Challenge: Continuing our Recovery and Reconnecting,setting out the proposed process for the further gradual of society and the economy.

From the 20September onwards, attendance at the workplace for specific business requirements may commence on a phased and staggered basis. In this regard employers should plan and prepare for this return to the workplace and, in particular, employers should pro-actively engage with their workers to determine how in-person work attendance can safely take place.

The Labour Employer Economic Forum (LEEF), which is the forum for high-level dialogue between Government, Trade Union and Employer representatives on matters related to the labour force, has published an additionalguidance note on the gov.ie website, to assist employers and employers with the planned return from 20 September.

An update of the Work Safely Protocol will also take place. However, the current Protocol remains a robust document containing advice on a wide range of COVID-19 public health measures applicable to every workplace. All employers and business managers should familiarise themselves with the Protocol.

The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has also produced supporting checklists and templates, available at covering infection prevention control measures, ventilation, rapid antigen testing to help employers to get their business up and running again and to inform workers on practical measures prevent the spread of COVID-19.

The Government is also calling on employers, in consultation with their workers, to develop longer-term arrangements for blended or remote working having regard to their operational requirements. In this regard, my Department published, earlier this year, the“Making Remote Work – National Remote Working Strategy”which outlines the vision for the future of remote working in Ireland.